why make this recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel Topping is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This recipe is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and festive occasions. The creamy sweet potato base paired with a crunchy, buttery streusel topping adds texture and richness, ensuring it will be the star of your table.

how to make Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel Topping

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark brown)
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup half and half or whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or sea salt
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark brown)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt or sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 to 2 cups miniature marshmallows (optional)

Directions:

1. Add sweet potatoes to a large pot filled with water. Bring to a boil over high heat and then reduce heat to medium. Simmer the potatoes until fork tender, about 20 minutes. Drain well and return to the hot pot off the heat to allow any extra moisture to cook away.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 2-quart or 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
3. In a large bowl or the pot where you cooked the sweet potatoes, mash the potatoes along with the softened butter using a potato masher or hand mixer.
4. Add the brown sugar, eggs, half and half, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Mash together until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Evenly spread the sweet potato filling into the prepared baking dish.
6. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Add the chopped pecans and melted butter, then stir until the pecans are evenly coated with the mixture.
7. Spread the streusel topping evenly on top of the sweet potatoes.
8. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
9. If you are using marshmallows, sprinkle them over the top of the casserole about 15 minutes before it’s done, and cook until just golden brown.

how to serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel Topping

Serve this delicious casserole warm as a side dish at holiday meals, family dinners, or any gathering where comfort food is appreciated. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, turkey, or even as a hearty main dish for a vegetarian feast.

how to store Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel Topping

Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

tips to make Sweet Potato Casserole with Streusel Topping

• Make sure to peel and cube the sweet potatoes before boiling to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
• Don’t skip the step of letting the sweet potatoes cool in the pot to dry; this helps improve the consistency of the casserole.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar based on your taste preferences.

variation

You can add other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, in place of pecans for a different flavor. If you want a healthier version, consider using maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned sweet potatoes for convenience. Just make sure to drain them well and mash them before combining with other ingredients.

2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just add extra time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this casserole vegan by using plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and flax eggs instead of regular eggs.